The Whole 9 takes the show to The Bay and interviews Oakland rapper G2. He’s making his return to music, and recently dropped a new single Ballin Like A Gym. Check the interview below.

the9elements: You had a musical enlightenment since we last heard from you in depth. What was it like walking away from a successful career to stand for your principles? How do you feel about this decision today?

G2: It was tough. It’s never easy to move away from something that is exciting and going well, but if it isn’t who you are, it it will never be the way it’s supposed to be. I found I was spending a lot of time chasing a dream that once I got closer to it was nothing even close to being as good as what I already had. I stand by my decisions because they’ve helped me to stop searching and start being grateful.

T9E: What’s your favorite non-rap album of all time and why?

G:Reggae Jax Riddim. It’s basically independent reggae, a bunch of songs all to the same beat. Each has a great rhythm, a positive message, and an up tempo but relaxing vibe you can chill or dance to. My favorite to jam out to in the car and run on repeat by the pool or on the beach.

T9E: What’s the Oakland music scene like for you these days?

G: I’m still mostly down for the old school sound. Too $hort, The Luniz, E-40, The Click, and RBL Posse. Some of the up and comers are nice, but I don’t Oakland music will ever reach the peak it reached in the 90’s. In my opinion, that was the golden age of rap. And for me, it’s still new even after almost 30 years. Nothing better.

T9E: What do you think surprises listeners the most about you?

G: Mainly, that I don’t try to be someone I’m not. I’m pretty honest and humble in real life, not trying to get rich off an image, pretty much the same on and off the clock. Not the most usual thing in the music scene, but I think it’s essential to not only making good music, but having fun doing it and making real connections with the fans.

T9E: What’s the next album and what can we expect?

G: My next album, Real Life, is going to include songs that are about real events in my life, some of my defining moments, my toughest times, and the parts of my story that I think many will be able to relate to. Should be coming out by the new year. Man, I’m excited!